Under the lights of Super fashion trade fair in Milan some new stars stood out. Young designers are gaining success on international scene and here they have the right space to show off. BACO’s Women’s Fashion Editor Valentina Accardo shares her top picks based on superior artisanal quality:
CHARLINE DE LUCA
Since studying architecture at the New York Institute of Technology, Charline has developed a true passion for shoe design and a deep understanding of what Made in Italy really means. After a professional experience at Fendi, this Roman young designer decided to pursue studies in shoe design at leading fashion academy, Central Saint Martins in London.
She started her own brand and her first collection made its debut in 2012. Produced in Naples by artisans with finest-quality materials, De Luca’s footwear is inspired by artist-driven volumes and geometric motifs. Retail price: 300-400 euro average for pair. Headquarters:Via Montello 30, Rome, Italy 00195.Where to buy:
ITUEN BASI
Nigerian designer Ituen Basi studied at Ife University in Nigeria and at London College of Fashion. In 2009 she launched her first collection, receiving international acclaim. A celebration of individuality and feminism, the label is a stylish combination of timeless elegance, with a contemporary twist, synonymous with a cutting-edge design aesthetic. She incorporates silk and African print cotton-based fabrics. Her most popular pieces are skirts, micro tops, dresses and smart accessories like necklaces and bracelets. Headquarters: Lagos, Nigeria. Retail price: 200 dollars average. Where to buy:
KEN SAMUDIO
At first blush, Ken Samudio’s bags look like sustainable jellyfish. The 33- year-old designer from the Philippines trained as biologist, before becoming an accessories designer. His line, which he started in 2011, is built mainly on his totally innate fashion sense and sheer luck. Selected by Vogue Italia as one of the Vogue Talents for Accessories in 2014, he was also featured in their 50th Anniversary Issue. It was a celebration for his homeland, as he was the first Filipino to be honored in such a way by the world’s leading consumer magazines. Constantly inspired by marine biodiversity, he replicated the visual characteristics of sea anemone with local, sustainable and recycled materials. What is even more impressive, is that Samudio employs mostly disadvantaged women to work in his small production house run by skilled artisans working behind the label. The collection is produced in the Philippines, but the brand’s business headquarters is based in London. His iconic piece is the clutch. Retail price: 300-600 euro. Where to buy: www.thecorner.com.
